Today we will talk about what were the three gifts given to Jesus. Many Christians do not know what this means. The gifts were gold, frankincense, and myrrh, presented by the Wise Men, also known as the Magi, as a part of their visit to honor the newborn King. Each gift holds deep significance, symbolizing various attributes of Jesus and His mission on Earth. Be on the mode of meditation as we read through God’s word, allowing His truth to enlighten our understanding and enrich our hearts.
What were the three gifts given to Jesus
Gold: The Gift of Kingship
The first gift presented to Jesus was gold, which has historically been associated with wealth, royalty, and divinity. In ancient cultures, gold was a symbol of power and prestige. The Hebrew word for gold is “zahav,” which is used throughout the Old Testament to denote not just the metal itself, but its significance. For example, gold adorned the tabernacle, showcasing its value in worship (Exodus 25:11). In Matthew 2:11, the Magi brought gold as they came to honor the King of the Jews. Gold represented Jesus’ kingship, acknowledging Him as the sovereign ruler who would reign over His people.
Gold has long been considered a precious gift, worthy of royalty. In the Bible, it was commonly used for decorations, such as in the construction of the Temple (1 Kings 6:20-22). This further signifies Jesus’ royal lineage, as He descends from the line of David (Isaiah 9:7). When the Wise Men offered gold, they recognized Jesus not only as a child but as the King of Kings, affirming His divine right to rule. The prophecy of Isaiah also prepares us for this recognition, stating, “For to us, a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder” (Isaiah 9:6, ESV).
Gold stands as a tangible reminder of Jesus’ identity and authority, and it prompts us to reflect on how we honor Him in our lives. Are we, like the Magi, willing to present our finest gifts to our King, recognizing His ultimate authority over our lives? James 1:17 reminds us that every good gift comes from above, challenging us to offer our best back to God in thankfulness. As we consider the gift of gold, let us also ponder the areas of our lives where we can honor Jesus as our King.
Frankincense: The Gift of Divinity
The second gift given to Jesus was frankincense. This aromatic resin, used in incense, symbolizes the divine nature of Christ. The Hebrew word for frankincense is “levonah,” and in the Old Testament, it was used in various religious rituals, denoting purity and holiness (Exodus 30:34-36). In Revelation 8:3, incense is mentioned as a representation of the prayers of the saints, indicating its importance in worship and communication with God.
The significance of frankincense goes beyond its pleasant aroma. It represents the divinity of Christ, acknowledging Him as God incarnate. When the Magi presented frankincense, they recognized Jesus not just as a king, but as the Son of God. The Gospel of John emphasizes this idea: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14, ESV).
By offering frankincense, the Wise Men were essentially declaring that Jesus was worthy of worship, as He alone holds the power to mediate between God and humanity. In Philippians 2:10-11, we are reminded that “at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,” further emphasizing His divine status. As followers of Christ today, we must ask ourselves how we embrace that divinity in our worship. Are our prayers and praises reflective of a genuine recognition of who Jesus is? Frankincense challenges us to approach God with reverence, recognizing His majesty and the sacredness of the relationship we have with Him.
Myrrh: The Gift of Suffering and Sacrifice
The third and final gift presented to Jesus was myrrh, a substance often associated with burial and suffering. The Hebrew term for myrrh is “mor,” which translates to bitterness. Historically, myrrh was used in embalming practices (John 19:39-40), symbolizing the suffering and sacrifice that Jesus would ultimately endure for humanity’s redemption. In Matthew 2:11, the inclusion of myrrh in the gifts serves as a foreshadowing of Jesus’ future death on the cross.
Myrrh carries a weighty significance; offering it to Jesus was a prophetic act. The Magi’s gift hinted at the pain and sacrifice that would be required of the Savior. Isaiah prophesied about the suffering servant when he said, “He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief” (Isaiah 53:3, ESV). This prophecy provides a backdrop to the gift of myrrh. While the earlier gifts symbolized Jesus’ royalty and divinity, myrrh represented the vulnerability and sacrifice of Jesus as He willingly faced the cross for our sins.
As we reflect on this gift, we recognize that suffering is a part of our own faith journey. Jesus assures us in John 16:33 that we will have troubles in this world, yet He encourages us to take heart, for He has overcome the world. Myrrh invites us to embrace the reality that Christ’s sacrifice gives us hope and strength in our own struggles. It prompts us to consider how we can be a blessing to others who are suffering, much like Christ’s example of selflessness and love. Ultimately, myrrh represents the depth of God’s love for us, as He sent His Son to become the ultimate sacrifice.
Final Thoughts
The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh offered by the Wise Men encompass significant meanings that enrich our understanding of who Jesus is. Gold reflects His kingship, affirming His authority over us and the world. Frankincense signifies His divine nature, reminding us to worship Him in all reverence. Lastly, myrrh foreshadows the suffering and sacrifice that Jesus would endure, inviting us to reflect on our own journeys of faith.
As we consider these gifts, let us be inspired to offer our best to Jesus in every aspect of our lives, recognizing the true meaning behind these treasures. They teach us about His character and the profound love He has for humanity, urging us to honor Him with our devotion, worship, and service. May we embrace the significance of these gifts and continue to delve into the rich tapestry of His story, both in celebration and in our daily walk.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4